Statement Attributable to the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen

Geneva

The Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, strongly condemns the series of terrorist attacks on 17 June in Sana’a, including the bombing of three mosques, which have resulted in scores of deaths and casualties. He extends his deepest sympathies and condolences to the families and friends of those killed and injured by these unconscionable acts.

The Special Envoy deplores the killing of civilians and the targeting of mosques and other civilian objects. Mr. Ould Cheikh Ahmed underscores that such criminal acts cannot be justified on any grounds, and calls for those responsible to be held accountable.

The Special Envoy reminds all parties, including Yemeni political, religious, military and community leaders, to take all possible measures to prevent any and all violence against religious sites or any other civilian institutions. He calls on all parties to avoid civilian casualties as is required under international humanitarian law and to remain fully and constructively engaged in the UN-mediated political process.